Third Trimester Of Pregnancy - What Precautions Should You Take?

With the third trimester (from the 7th month to the time of delivery) of pregnancy, you move a step closer to welcoming the happiness that you have long been waiting for, braving so many complications and pregnancy woes. While all the trimesters are crucial, stepping into the third trimester, a pregnant woman needs to be extra careful. Be it her diet, medications, or health check-ups, proper care and precautionary measures should be followed to ensure both the mother and baby stay healthy and disease-free.

Health check-ups: No matter how healthy you or the baby are, do not skip even a single health checkup or doctor's appointment. Incidences of Gestational Diabetes, Preeclampsia, Anemia, can be observed in many pregnant women during the later stages of pregnancy, which, if left unattended can complicate the pregnancy. Thus, any uneasiness or discomfort, no matter how small, should be brought to the notice of your attending physician. When it comes to the well being of the baby, taking chances is just not an option.

Rest, sleep and relax: With all the hormonal changes and the growth and development of the fetus, body aches, fatigue (physical as well as mental), and tiredness are inevitable, especially during the third trimester. Stay happy and relaxed as much as you can. While a sound sleep and proper rest are vital, listening to soft and soothing music or meditation can work wonders to keep you relaxed, thereby uplifting your mood.
Try and avoid climbing too many stairs during this stage. Avoid bending too much or doing strenuous and physically and mentally exhausting work (household chores or professional commitments).

Exercise: Many pregnant women in their third trimester have benefited immensely from exercise (specially designed for the third trimester) and physical activities. However, what works for one may not produce similar results for another. Exercise only when you are physically and mentally up for it and most importantly when you are advised by a physician.

Dietary Requirements: The nutritional requirements change with each trimester and so does the diet. Proteins, vitamins, calcium, iron, folic acid, DHA or omega-3 fatty acids are all essential for the overall development of the baby.

Enrich your diet with avocados, kiwi, melon, strawberry, nuts, seeds, wholemeal toast, bacon (lean), salmon, Brussels sprouts, lean beef, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, eggs, pork, milk and dairy products during the third trimester.

Processed and fast foods, raw papaya, uncooked or raw vegetables and meat, aloe vera, fenugreek, pineapple, unpasteurized milk, can, however, trigger complications and are best left avoided during the third trimester.

Overeating just because you are carrying a life within does not make any sense. Instead, it can trigger heartburn and acidity. Having small meals at regular time intervals will be more beneficial. To deal with heartburns, one should also avoid retiring to bed immediately after a meal. Increased intake of dietary fibres goes a long way to prevent constipation (common during the third trimester).